Up next on the docket for my New Year, Better You series is my sweet friend, Blare June. She’s discussing 3 real ways we can incorporate wellness into our routine for a happier mental state this year. If you’re a reader here than you might remember that Blare had a series here on The Blondielocks last year discussing all things mental health and wellness, and so it is no wonder that I’m thrilled to have her back here today as my expert on the topic of wellness. So, without further ado, here are 3 proven ways on how to have a healthy mentality in 2018…
Although it’s only the second week of January, who else feels as if they are already knee-deep (and for those of us up north…I don’t mean literal) into 2018? We truly jump back into the grind and leave little to no time to reflect on how to make this upcoming year healthier than the last. When Kaylee asked me to be a part of her New Year, Better You series as an expert on wellness, I couldn’t have been more excited to share my personal tips with her loyal following (that’s you!). There is no better time to incorporate positive changes in your life than a fresh new calendar year.
As a senior psychiatry resident (MD), both the study and practice of psychiatry has always been incredibly interesting to me. Although psychiatric illness is not what I am here to discuss today, overall wellness and maintaining one’s mental health is something we can all benefit from.
What you are going to read below you have likely scanned on the cover of every health magazine at the grocery store or have heard discussed on almost every daytime talk show. However, the reason I am honing in on these points once again is because…THEY ACTUALLY WORK! Below are 3 real ways you can help support your mental health in 2018! Let this year be healthy, less stressful and overall more positive!
1. GET YOUR SWEAT ON
After a long day at work and a never-ending to-do list, the last thing many of us want to do is hit the gym. Exercise is vital in maintaining one’s mental health. When we exercise we have a more rested sleep, more energy and often we feel better about ourselves overall. You do not need a gym membership or the funds to attend a trendy workout class to be active. There are many great at home workouts online and there are always the sidewalks just outside your front door. Fresh air and an increased heart rate will do wonders. I suggest making a killer playlist or downloading a new podcast, it always helps me take my mind off feeling short of breath and just plain ole’ tired.
2. GET YOUR BEAUTY SLEEP
When our to-do-lists are endless and “there is not enough time in the day”, we may think it is a good idea to stay up past our bedtime and Netflix and chill. Trust me when I say this is not a good idea. It is vital to get on average 6-8 hours of sleep per night (everyone is different when it comes to the amount of sleep you need, you will know best). When we are well rested we are more likely to cope with whatever life may throw at us the next day and overall, feel better.
3.EAT YOUR GREENS
Your mom was right, it is important to eat your veggies! Eating well-balanced, nutritious and energizing meals will keep your sugar balanced and as a result your ability to cope more promising. That being said…I am all in favor of a “treat yo self” moment from time to time. Maintaining wellness is also about balance. If you are craving sweets or fried food, indulge my friend!
Be easy on yourself, put down the fad diet and go back to the basics of what really works….eating healthy, working out and sleeping well! It may sound easy but tackling these three necessities before incorporating other health trends will benefit not only your mental health but your physical health ongoing!
Bring it on 2018!
PS: In case you missed it, here’s the link to last weeks New Year, Better You post all about upping your style game in 2018!
Website: Blare June
Instagram: @Blare June
